Realtor Revealed - Gena Fulton Forehand

I am from the big city of Duncanville and grew up all around the Dallas suburbs, but I have been in Lubbock since November 1982.

Why do you live in the Lubbock Area? What do you like most about it?

Lubbock has been my home since November 1982. I am a very stable person and started roots here and a family. Lubbock's economy is very inexpensive compared to other places to live and people are very friendly.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

I love antiques, camping, boating, baseball, and spending time with my family and grandbaby (who’s just 6 months old) when I am not working.

How long have you worked in Real Estate?

I have had my real estate license since 1989, but was inactive until June of 2004 when I started at RE/MAX.

What did you do before that?

I was previously in public relations, had two antique stores (one in Lubbock and one in Coleman, TX), and obtained a phlebotomy certificate. Real etate is where I chose my new career and have been very happy helping people find first homes, second homes for college students, investments, etc.

What is your specialty?

I am a residential specialist, but have done some commercial properties, farm land, etc...whatever it takes!

What designations do you have and what does that mean for the people you work with?

I currently have the following designations: GRI, ABR, ASR, SRES, TAHS and am working on my CRS. I love taking classes and learning what is current in the market as real estate changes on a daily basis. Each designation represents furthering my education to help people find homes based on their individual needs whether it is their first home, or are down sizing for retirement or needing temporary homes for their college kids, investments to secure their future, etc. Real estate is the best investment you can have.

What is the most challenging/gratifying aspect of what you do?

I love visiting my clients which are now my friends after I have sold them their home and hearing how much they still love their home and what it means to their family.

What is the most unique property you’ve listed or sold?

The most unique property I listed and sold was a commercial property in Idalou. It was a weigh in station and cotton gin.

What is one tip you have for someone looking to buy or sell a home?

The best advice and tip I can give to someone looking to buy a property is to get pre-approved before starting their search. We as Realtors need to know what type of loan buyers are qualified for and how much home they can afford to buy. It could also be based on a payment they are comfortable with. Selling a home takes work as the house needs to be show ready, which means maintenance completed, cleaning inside and out, and knowing houses are sold by market value based on square footage, not what you need to buy a new one or pay off other bills. Also updates and upgrades make your home more desirable than others in the area but isn’t a dollar for dollar return. These are some tips I share when listing homes to get top dollar.

What do you see in the future for real estate sales/prices?

I think right now is the time to buy real estate. The interest rates are still lower than they haven been in many years and our inventory is large.

Why should someone choose you as their real estate agent?

If you choose me as your realtor whether selling or buying I will work hard and do my very best to listen to your needs and share my knowledge in this process.Buying a home is one of the most single largest investments people make.I want it to be a very good and memorable experience.I work by referrals so when you have a good experience you share it with your friends and family which makes my business successful.

What local organizations and charities are you involved in?

I am involved with CMN (Children’s Miracle Network). We have “Miracle Homes” which mean we donate a portion of our commission to help purchase equipment and necessities for children at UMC. I’m also involved with Susan G. Komen and Relay for Life, which both deal with raising money for cancer research.

What is the most interesting place you have ever been?

The most interesting place I have had the priveledge of going was Cozmel Mexico.I had a great time and would love to go back soon.